Definition

Noun: 1. A small bottle or container for holding liquids such as oil, vinegar, or wine for use at the dining table. Typically part of a set, often placed in a stand or frame. 2. (Ecclesiastical) A small vessel used in Christian liturgy to hold water, wine, or oil for the Eucharist.

Usage

• The primary use is domestic, referring to a container for condiments on a dining table.
• The secondary, specialized use is religious, referring to a liturgical vessel.

Examples

• Domestic context:
  • The waiter brought a cruet of olive oil and balsamic vinegar to the table.
  • A classic cruet set usually includes containers for oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
• Ecclesiastical context:
  • The priest filled the cruet with wine before the Mass.

Advanced Usage

• "Cruet stand": A frame or holder designed to contain several cruets, often for oil, vinegar, and other condiments. This is a related compound term.
  • The silver cruet stand was a family heirloom.

Variants and Related Words

• Cruet-stand (n): A stand for holding cruets. (Note: This is a compound word).
• Ampulla (n): A more formal or historical term for a small flask, sometimes used in similar religious contexts.

Synonyms

• Condiment bottle: Specifically for the domestic use.
• Flask: A general term for a small container for liquids.
• Cruse (archaic): A small earthenware pot or jar for liquids.

Notes

• The word is pronounced /ˈkruː.ɪt/.
• In modern domestic settings, individual bottles are often simply called "oil bottles" or "vinegar bottles," but "cruet" remains the precise term for such tableware, especially when part of a matched set.

Noun

1. bottle that holds wine or oil or vinegar for the table